Farmers urged to lock-up over Xmas

Hunter farmers are being warned they are not immune from break and enters and should be taking precautions to secure their properties.

The holiday season is a notoriously busy time for thieves targeting empty homes over the Christmas/New Year break.

It has prompted police to warn those leaving the area to lock up valuables and for those staying to keep a watch over their neighbours' properties.

Hunter Valley Crime Coordinator Sergeant Peter Robertson says those on farms are also at risk.

"People on rural properties are a little vulnerable anyway because of their isolation, so if it's at all possible and you have really valuable stuff, you can make other arrangements rather than just leaving it at home," he said.

Sergeant Robertson says the same applies to those living in town.

"Leave a set of keys with someone that you can trust, let people know that you won't be there," he said.

"Just make sure that any really valuable property can be left with other people instead of leaving it at home and just make sure that your house and your belongings are secured."